Millions of Brits read, text and chat to friends while in the loo!

Published: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 13:24 [IST]

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London, Nov 19 : For most people, it provides a time for quiet contemplation and a chance to study knees, but when it comes to Brits, they like to read, chat and text friends while in the loo, says a new survey released to mark World Toilet Day.

According to the poll, more than 14 million of Britons have admitted to reading a newspaper, book or magazine to pass the time in the smallest room.

The study, commissioned by aid agency Tearfund, found up to eight million also like to talk while on the toilet - either on the phone or to family - while one in five will send text messages, reports the Daily Express.

The Toilet Habit survey also suggested that men were more likely to look around for a distraction than women.

Also, 75 per cent of the 2,056 adults questioned complained about toilets being dirty or unflushed, the study revelaed.

Charlie Mullins, who works for the London-based company, said: "We have more than 100 plumbers who get called out to help with around 20 toilets a day, helping with anything from a small leak to a pouring toilet bowl. When you get to the bottom of the blockage, though, you can sometimes receive an unexpected surprise."